Pfc. Michael Pearson

Pfc. Michael Pearson

Family photo

This undated family photo shows Army Pfc. Michael Pearson of Bolingbrook, Ill. Pearson quit what he figured was a dead-end furniture company job to join the military about a year ago. Pearson's mother, Sheryll Pearson, said the 2006 Bolingbrook High School graduate joined the military because he was eager to serve his country and broaden his horizons. "He was the best son in the whole world," she said. "He was my best friend, and I miss him."

This undated family photo shows Army Pfc. Michael Pearson of Bolingbrook, Ill. Pearson quit what he figured was a dead-end furniture company job to join the military about a year ago. Pearson's mother, Sheryll Pearson, said the 2006 Bolingbrook High School graduate joined the military because he was eager to serve his country and broaden his horizons. "He was the best son in the whole world," she said. "He was my best friend, and I miss him." (Family photo)

This undated family photo shows Army Pfc. Michael Pearson of Bolingbrook, Ill. Pearson quit what he figured was a dead-end furniture company job to join the military about a year ago. Pearson's mother, Sheryll Pearson, said the 2006 Bolingbrook High School graduate joined the military because he was eager to serve his country and broaden his horizons. "He was the best son in the whole world," she said. "He was my best friend, and I miss him."